Cherif Ndiaye played a pivotal role as Red Star Belgrade sealed their 11th Serbian SuperLiga crown with a commanding 3-1 win over OFK Belgrade, extending their storied legacy to 36 top-flight titles across the Yugoslav, Serbian-Montenegrin, and Serbian eras.
The Senegalese forward struck Red Star’s third goal of the match in the 11th minute, latching onto a well-timed assist from Aleksandar Katai.
That finish took Ndiaye’s tally to 18 goals in the league and 21 across all competitions this season, matching his career-best figures from the 2021–2022 campaign.
Already dominant in the league for weeks, Red Star’s triumph was never in doubt. The Belgrade giants wrapped up the title with 86 points—23 clear of their eternal rivals, Partizan Belgrade—making it the earliest title win in Serbian top-flight history. The result underlines Crvena Zvezda’s grip on Serbian football, with this being their fifth consecutive league crown.
Ndiaye’s contribution has been integral to that success. His blend of power, precision, and movement in the final third has made him a constant threat to defences across the league.
Saturday’s goal was another demonstration of the 28-year-old’s composure and clinical finishing, characteristics that have become hallmarks of his performances in Red Star colours.
The title marks Ndiaye’s third trophy with Crvena Zvezda, following a domestic double last season.
Since joining the Serbian champions, the Senegalese international has established himself not only as a fan favourite but also as one of the league’s most effective forwards.
Red Star’s latest league triumph is a testament to their consistency and depth, with a squad that has remained unrelenting in its pursuit of silverware.
Their offensive firepower, marshalled by Ndiaye, has been matched by a resolute back line and midfield stability, making them formidable opponents at every stage of the season.
While the playoffs remain, Red Star’s early coronation allows the coaching staff to focus on preparations for European qualification, where they will look to improve on past campaigns.
For Ndiaye, the next step could be a chance to test his form on the continental stage and perhaps aim to surpass his personal goal tally before the season’s conclusion.
As celebrations continue in Belgrade, the spotlight shines brightly on the Senegalese forward who helped fire his side to yet another championship.
His impact has not only been felt on the scoresheet but also in the dressing room, where his experience and ambition continue to drive one of Europe’s most historic clubs forward.
